Ask Jon Kohler
Crescent Lake Plantation stands as one of the last large “Old Florida” lakefront properties. Spanning 1,177 +/- acres of pristine and diverse ecosystems in both Putnam and Flagler County, Florida with breathtaking 3-miles of water frontage along the 16,000-acre Crescent Lake, this property showcases a well-preserved landscape of cypress ecosystems, live oak hammocks, and multiple planted pine stands, creating the perfect balance for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
This is no ordinary lake boundary. 13 miles long and 2 miles wide, Crescent Lake connects to the St. John’s River and the Intracoastal Waterway, allowing for extraordinary waterfowl, fishing, and boating opportunities. People travel far and wide to visit this profound recreational area. To attest to that, the Bass Pro Shops team recently expanded their empire to this area of the state, purchasing 4,300 acres just 4 miles west of Crescent Lake, with plans to open their newest branch of their famed outdoor themed resorts.
Crescent Lake Plantation has been thoughtfully developed for serious hunters, conservationists, and their families. Having only been inhabited by two landowners in the past 80 years, this property seems as if it could be right out of Patrick Smith’s classic, A Land Remembered – perhaps the perfect story highlighting the importance of being a good land steward over the last of Old Florida’s landscape and culture. Ancient moss-draped live oaks, park-like hardwoods, and iconic undisturbed cypress stands are spread throughout this property, once again authenticating its essence of Old Florida.
Through involvement with legendary biologist, Dr. Craig Harper, the food plots have been tailored to provide the most beneficial nutrients to the deer and turkey populations. The current owners stress that they have been proactive through selective game management, allowing deer to grow in their natural environments in order to help keep the herds healthy. Crescent Lake Plantation and its stewards are role models in the conservation world. It is more than just a hunting property; it is a legacy that the next landowner is sure to enjoy and carry on.
In addition to the trophy deer herd, there are exceptional Osceola turkey flocks local to the plantation. In fact, this is some of the best turkey hunting found in the region! These wildlife populations are complimented by an impressive dove field equipped with power lines as well as three duck holes nestled in the cypress ends. The current stewards testify that wood duck hunting comes naturally to this property and includes not only 3 miles of lake frontage but 3 ponds as well. Crescent Lake itself is also renowned for its largemouth bass, bluegill and speckled perch and with its high banks presenting an opportunity for future dock improvement, it makes for an ideal investment for fishing enthusiasts as well.
The plantation's newly constructed 3,500 square-foot lodge is beautifullynestled in a picturesque oak hammock, offering views reminiscent of the pioneer days. Built in 2020, this inviting lodge boasts a spacious great room with stunning cypress ceilings, custom accents throughout providing an ideal space for family and friend gatherings.With 5 bedrooms and two bathrooms (additional bath already plumed), the lodge is well-equipped to accommodate guests. One of the bedrooms features built-in queen bunk beds, offering four queen-sized beds for added convenience. The layout is thoughtfully designed for expansion, with the plan for a master suite addition and a room pre-plumbed for additional bathrooms, giving the future owner flexibility to customize the space to their liking. This house was constructed with high-quality insulation providing low utilities costs, a top-of-the-line air humidifier integrated into the AC system, Optiview security cameras, generator and Starlink internet for a consistently fast and reliable connection. The lodge blends modern comfort with timeless charm, making it an excellent feature of the plantation.
On the property, preserved remnants of an old chimney dated back to the 1800’s stand as a testament to the land’s history, adding character and a unique sense of heritage.
There is both an enclosed and open storage barn on the property. The enclosed storage barn includes an ice maker, walk-in cooler and a cleaning station. Crescent Lake also provides an expansive road system that offers convenient access to all areas of the property.
Additionally, the property benefits from cell tower lease rights and planted pines of various ages, providing a unique income stream alongside its recreational use.
Bordering a state refuge and nearby to both Rayonier land and an expansive ranch owned by the founders of Jack Link’s Jerky, this property is perfectly situated for those seeking privacy and likeminded neighbors all while remaining within minutes of Palatka and coastal towns like St. Augustine and Daytona Beach. Crescent Lake Plantation combines the best of traditional hunting land, conservation stewardship, and endless recreational potential, making it the ultimate Social Storm™ property.
Directions: Follow I-10 E to US-41 S in Columbia County. Take exit 301 from I-10 E1 hr 22 min (98.2 mi) Merge onto I-10 E97.9 mi Take exit 301 for US-41 toward Lake City/White Springs0.3 mi Drive to FL-20 E/State Rte 100 E in San Mateo1 hr 48 min (92.2 mi) Turn right onto US-41 S (signs for Lake City)3.0 mi At the traffic circle, continue straight onto US-41 S/NW Main Blvd0.3 mi Turn left onto NW Bascom Norris Dr3.0 mi Continue straight onto State Rte 100 E Pass by Domino's Pizza (on the left in 34.4 mi)34.6 mi Keep left to continue on W Madison St0.4 mi Merge onto State Rte 100 E/S Water St Continue to follow State Rte 100 E37.9 mi Continue straight past ABC Fine Wine & Spirits onto Peters St0.1 mi Merge onto US-17 S/Reid St Continue to follow US-17 S Pass by Subway (on the right in 1.6 mi)6.8 mi Turn left onto FL-20 E/State Rte 100 E Destination will be on the right